The reproductive response of the protobranch bivalve Yoldia hyperborea to an intermittent influx of phytodetritus. An experimental approach

A dual marker experiment using 14C and 68Ge radiolabelled Thalassiosira nordenskioldii demonstrated that Y. hyperborea fed on T. nordenskioldii and 14C was incorporated into the gonad tissue. Consequently experimental individuals periodically supplied with senescent algae concentrate produced more and larger oocytes than control individuals. These results would help to understand the influence of the sinking phytodetritus in the reproductive activity of Y. hyperborea at Conception Bay.